Your immune system is a complex structure that includes cells specifically designed to ward off infections and other dangers. A healthy immune system requires adequate sleep, regular exercise, and a good diet. Here are some foods that can help boost your immune system to keep you healthier and feeling great!
- Choose foods that are high in vitamin C. Vitamin C, a powerful antioxidant, is found in a variety of foods. Of course, the most common is the citrus family: oranges, clementines, lemons, and limes. However, there are many foods that contain good amounts of vitamin C. Good options include strawberries, spinach, broccoli, and bell peppers!
- Nuts and seeds contain vitamin E, another important nutrient to improve immunity. Some of the best sources are almonds, sunflower seeds, and peanut butter. If you don’t like nuts and seeds or have an allergy, vitamin E can be found in avocado, bell peppers, and fish.
- Vitamin A helps to prevent infection. You can find vitamin A in liver, some fish, and dairy. Plant forms of vitamin A are found in cantaloupe, carrots, and squash.
- Tea – though most of us think of traditional black tea, many different types of teas provide important nutrients for the immune system. Both green and black tea are derived from the same plant, with black tea leaves oxidized, and provide important antioxidants but also caffeine. White tea is more delicate and provides excellent antioxidants.
Add these foods to your daily diet for a stronger immune system. Include stress reducing techniques, a good sleep routine, and regular exercise and you will be building healthy habits for life!
Source: Complete Wellness Solutions. Completely Well Newsletter, November 2021.
Immune Boosting Foods